Community Advocate June 12, 2020 (includes Summer Guide 2020)

Cummings Foundation awards $20 million in grants to nonprofits page

Assabet Valley baseball coach going to great lengths

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CommunityAdvocate

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Shrewsbury · Westborough · Northborough · Southborough · Marlborough · Hudson · Grafton

Vol. 46 | No. 24 | June 12, 2020

Peace Out Seniors celebrated throughout the region

Graduates celebrate Shrewsbury High School’s “Last Ride” June 3.

PHOTO/ PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

Protesters gathered for an event in Northborough June 6.

Time for change Residents across region protest against racial injustice and police brutality page

inside this issue: PHOTOS/MELANIE PETRUCCI

REGION – Even though the pandemic dashed any traditional graduation ceremonies this year, local high schools still found special ways to celebrate their graduating seniors.

news .....................3 sports ....................30 schools ...................31 police log ...............34

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2 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 3

Town prepares to reopen municipal buildings COVID-19 case reporting in Shrewsbury is hampered by another discrepancy

By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter SHREWSBURY – Due to another discrepancy in how COVID-19 cases are being reporter, the town of Shrewsbury has been notified by the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA,) that there were an additional 32 unreported positive cases and five more as of June 4.

The office of Town Manager Kevin Mizikar released a memo on June 4 advising the town was “reporting a higher increase of total positive cases of COVID-19”. The memo noted that there had been no positive cases reported since May 26 and on that date the cumulative positive cases since March 1 was 270. The correct number is now 307.

This is the second time there has been a discrepancy in reported numbers. The first discrepancy was reported on April 21.

As the numbers are coming in a Reopening Task Force has been formed with Assistant Town Manager Kristen Las serving as chair and Angela Snell, superintendent of public facilities and parks, vicechair. Members include town employees from administrative assistants to department heads.

The task force is following a similar phased timeline as the state and oversees the reopening of Town Hall, the Senior Center and the Library.

Currently, the Town is in Phase I and all building are still closed to the public. However, employees are working either in the office or remotely in accordance with Governor Charlie Baker’s suggestion that if employees are able to work effectively from home then that is the preferred protocol at this time.

“Phase I meets the state’s requirements for office space of the 25 percent capacity and it meets the safety standard requirements, required training on safety and hygiene for all staff,” Las said.

“The Reopening Task force is now working on what Phase II may look like,” Las said.

“That may be allowing the public back into Town Hall by appointment only.”

The Library is still working on Phase I which permits

library materials to be picked up and returned curbside.

The Council on Aging is working to bring back transportation which was stalled in March. Meals on Wheels have continued to operate during the pandemic.

“Phase II could start as soon as June 8. We do not have an

idea at this time when the Town Hall would be open for appointments,” Las noted.

When asked about the parks and playgrounds, Las replied that tennis courts at Dean Park, Coolidge School and Oak Middle School were open to the public but playgrounds, basketball courts and all facili-

ties at Shrewsbury High School remain closed. However, all parks are open for passive recreation.

“The Town is taking all the guidance from the state under very serious consideration.

We are planning for the safety of not only the employees but most importantly the Town

residents,” she explained. “If anyone needs anything we certainly are all answering phones and email and are getting back to people as soon as possible.”

She also reminded that payments of bills can be done online or residents can use the drop box in front of the Town Hall.

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4 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

Letters to the Editor

A response to violence - By what path might we overcome hate?

To the Editor: The recent events in Minnesota have generated a fever of protest unseen in my lifetime since the protests of the 1960s. We cannot but sympathize with those affected, especially the victims of police violence and all the victims of protest violence including innocent shop owners, and police just trying to do their jobs.

I only hope that the protests might generate a sensible and well thought out program for reform to correct the injustices and to protect the general welfare. The history of protest movements is mixed at best and usually creates a slow progression of improvements or, at worst, some grand efforts at social engineering that, over time, is counterproductive. So what can be done?

Let’s look locally. What is the current state of police procedures that might allow an over-

reaction by local police? What is the value of body cameras and what are we now doing in our area departments? Is our police training and our response to accusations against police what it needs to be? Do the local departments have staffing that reflect the various racial and ethnic constituencies in their neighborhoods? The evidence in nationwide incidents is that much remains to be done to improve procedure and response. I suggest that President Obama’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing needs to be the standard. Our local governments should be expected to address the issue: now!

As for the larger problems of racism and ethnic tension, we are talking about the darkness of the human heart. This is not corrected by social programs or protest movements but by personal repentance. Can the law mandate love of neighbor? Can the mere distribution of cash or the sudden hiring of thousands of the unemployed succeed in overcoming hate?

In Marlborough, we have begun a program that at once seeks, through personal repentance, to combat racism and every other form of hatred and sin. In addition, it brings

our needs and concerns to the One whose love keeps the very universe in motion. We have been meeting on the second Saturday of every month at 12:00 noon at Union Common in Marlborough.

All are welcome to join us, rain or shine, on Saturday, June 13, which will mark the end of one full year of such gatherings. I pray the pastors of all our churches will join together with us to support this effort by attending personally. Since we are not encouraging large gatherings, we invite each pastor to urge their members to join with us in prayer at the same time, but on the front steps of their homes.

We kneel with those who grieve. We protest the sin in our selves. We beg for the mercy of the highest authority. Please join us.

Paul Brodeur

Marlborough

Grafton Teachers Association supports Roy and Often To the Editor: After carefully reviewing the candidates’ records and platforms, the members of the

Grafton Teachers Association are enthusiastically asking that voters concerned about the future of public Education in our community vote for Colleen Roy and Mat Often in the June 23rd Board of Selectman election.

“The selection of these two candidates was an easy decision because they stood out as the candidates who will best promote quality public education and provide the leadership needed in these turbulent times,” said Angela Mercure, the President of the Grafton Teachers Association.

GTA’s decision to make a recommendation in the Selectmen’s race was reached with the interests of students, and public education as the guide.

Grafton Teachers Association

Vote for Moe DePalo for Shrewsbury Selectmen To the Editor: It is easy to forget that we have a delayed town election on June 16. Elections matter and I am again supporting Moe DePalo for re-election to the Board of Selectmen. Moe’s years

of experience on the Board have given him immense institutional insight and the ability to react appropriately to the needs of the community. He has been a steady and balanced supporter of public education, safety and the municipal operations. Moe’s service reflects his values. He always seeks the right balance to each of these critical areas. It’s very difficult to know just how well Shrewsbury will fair due to the pandemic but I want someone like Moe there to help lead us through this critical period.

Moe knows all aspects of this town better than anyone. As a former Selectman I had the privilege of working with Moe on the Board, the School Building Committee and the Fiscal Study Committee. His fair and strong leadership is needed and I fully support him in is re-election bid.

Henry Fitzgerald

Shrewsbury

Vote for Thomas for Grafton Select Board To the Editor: If you are smart, please vote to re-elect Jennifer Thomas to the Town of Grafton Select Board June 23! In this crazy time of fear and distrust of governLetters | 5

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 5 Letters | from page 4

ment, Jen Thomas is someone to be trusted, relied upon, and believed. Jen is always responsive to any concerns of the community. She makes every effort to be informed and stay on top of situations and issues we care about. She goes above and beyond to respond and be supportive and to take action. She addresses issues head on with professionalism, intelligence, and grace. Jennifer Thomas is a local government official that we can feel confident hears us and wants the best for all, in the entire community of North, Center, and South Grafton.

Jennifer is all about our community and we are fortunate to have someone so willing to give so much time and energy to Grafton. Please vote to re-elect Jennifer Thomas!

Wanda Hendrix Grafton

Open for business REGION - As the economy slowly starts to reopen, there will be several things that will need to happen, according to Gov. Charlie Baker’s directives. All businesses must develop a written control plan outlining how its workplace will comply with the mandatory safety standards for operation. Posters must also be printed and displayed that will ensure employees and customers that mandates are being followed regarding compliance with maintaining social distancing, hygiene protocols, and cleaning and disinfecting.

State officials are hopeful that if these mandates are followed, Massachusetts will be able to move to phase 3 of the reopening by the end of June.

Letters to the Editor

Letters must be signed with name and address and include a telephone number for verification. The editor reserves the right to reject letters on the basis of length, libelous content and suitability. Letters under 350 words will not be edited for length. Longer letters may be edited, depending on space constraints. Deadline is Monday noon for same week publication. The Community Advocate will not knowingly publish letters that have been printed in any other newspaper. Opinions expressed in letters to the editor are not necessarily those of The Community Advocate or its advertisers.

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Periodicals postage is paid at Westborough, MA 01581 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.

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Vote for Often for Grafton Select Board

To the Editor: It is with great pleasure that I write this letter in support of Mat Often for Grafton Select Board. As the finance committee chairperson, Mat has shown

that he is a leader willing to collaborate, think outside the box, and always prepared to lead.

Mat actively seeks ways to save Grafton money and respectfully asks challenging questions that moves Grafton forward. Not only is Mat a strong leader, but he is also a fantastic community member, not just because he is campaigning. Mat not only attends many events around Grafton, he and his family are often actively volunteering at these events. He truly embodies what it means to be a positive community member.

We are in a very lucky position to have four people run for Select Board that are currently serving on committees. This means, as voters, we do not have to rely on campaign jargon and/ or prepared statements to help inform our votes. We can watch the candidates in action on Grafton Community Television either live or in videos on demand. If you watch any meeting that Mat is involved in you will see him step up, collaborate, and lead for Grafton.

Please consider joining me in voting Mat Often for Select Board June 23.

Lisa Rice Grafton

More Letters to the Editor can be found at www.communityadvocate.com/communityvoices

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6 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

Four candidates vie for two seats on Northborough BOS NORTHBOROUGH – Four candidates will be on the ballot for two seats on the Board of Selectmen in the Tuesday, June 30 Annual Town Election. The Community Advocate has invited the candidates to share a bit about their backgrounds and why they are running for selectmen. Here, in their own words, are the answers from three candidates – incumbent Jason Perreault, Thomas Dalton, Lisa Maselli and Scott Rogers.

Please give a brief introductory statement of your background.

Thomas Dalton - Due to the fact that I am disabled, I reside in Northborough Housing. Living here offers me a different view of the needs of the community of Northborough.

You see I have a seizure disorder and previously a stroke. I have a different campaign than most because I’ve not only had medical experience through electronic billing and claims adjustments with extensive training in the HIPAA law but I’ve also been a patient who

Thomas Dalton

Lisa Maselli

learned along the way. During this time of COVID-19, you need someone that has an understanding of the issues facing residents of Northborough.

Lisa Maselli - I am running for Board of Selectmen.

Caring about our town and the people in it, I want to help keep Northborough a safe and healthy place in which to live.

I have written many bylaws and helped residents navigate through the municipal process when facing neighborhood issues. Our voters should feel confident in the future that they will have a representative who will listen to their concerns, ignite the stalled progress of economic development and downtown strategic initiatives, implement safety signals, sidewalks and traffic calming,

Jason Perreault

Scott Rogers

motivate green initiatives, in addition to being concerned with the budget.

Jason Perreault – I’m the current Chairman of the Northborough Board of Selectmen. My family moved to Northborough in 1996, primarily for its character, school system, and location. For the last 20 years I’ve been a leader and contributor on a number of Town committees, following a progression of increasing responsibility, most significantly through two terms as Selectman, preceded by ten years of service, seven as Chair, on the Financial Planning Committee. More detail about my past service can be found at jp4bos. com and on Facebook page “Jason Perreault for Northborough Board of Selectmen”.

Scott Rogers - I currently work at UMass Medical School and my wife Mary is a school nurse at Melican; we have lived in Northborough since 1995 after my end of duty in the US Air Force. I am dedicated to community service and volunteerism. I served on the board of Northborough Youth Soccer and guided High School volunteers as part of Young Neighbors in Action. I am a member of the Operations Committee for Community Harvest Project which supplies fresh produce to the Worcester County Food Bank. More background information can be found at https:// www.facebook.com/RogersOfNorthborough What do you feel in your experience would make you the best candidate for this position?

Dalton - I am the best candidate for this position because I live right smack dab in the center of town. I don’t drive.

I walk and I know our town.

I’m the guy in the pit who can run the show from the ground

OUR DISTRICT DESERVES a full-time transparent, accountable and accessible legislator championing education, gender equity, economic development, healthcare and climate solutions.

Ceylan is an active member of the Northborough community, socially responsible small business owner, a Commissioner for the MetroWest Commission on the Status of Women, a child of immigrants, a mother of two kids and wife of her college sweatheart.

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up because that’s where I am.

I understand what’s going on around me and I sit, stand, stop, and listen. I have talked in person extensively to the town farmers, the small businesses, Algonquin’s principal, teachers, and more. This is a time like no other and I will be quick to adapt to these rapid changes.

Maselli - My experience is well rounded and extensive with over 35 years of civic participation. A list starting in 1985 with the Southborough Business Association and continuing onto today with the Northborough Design Review Board, can be found on my Facebook page: Lisa Maselli Northborough Selectman.

I have listened to the peoples’ desire to keep their schools excellent, have their tax money used wisely and to revitalize their downtown. As a proven creative problem solver I will look with clear eyes on where we are and where we want to be and utilize my talents to help steer through the Covid-19 pandemic.

Perreault - My commitment to do what’s needed.

Regularly attending Town Meeting long before I was on a committee at the front of the room. Authoring the K-8 School Building Study Committee’s report. Launching the Elderly and Disabled Taxation Fund Committee. Analyzing state law and regulations to help the Town gain an additional $1.7M of reimbursement for the ARHS renovation project. Leading Selectmen’s effort to establish bylaws prohibiting recreational marijuana facilities. Offering verbal testimony at a Department of Agricultural Resources hearing, critical of proposed regulation amendments for farm-based composting. When I’ve left a committee, it was because its work was concluded, or to take on a new role of greater responsibility; never because I lost interest or wore out my welcome. I arrive early. I stay late. I show up.

Rogers - As a member of the Northborough Financial Planning Committee, I currently serve in an advisory capacity to the Board of Selectmen, Appropriations Committee and Town Administrator for financial trend analysis, long-term capital improvement planning Candidates | 7

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 7 Candidates | from page 6

and current-year capital purchases. My knowledge of our town’s financial management will be critical as a Selectman during this period of financial distress.

What committees would you most enjoy working with if you were elected for this position and why?

Dalton - There are so many great committees and choices which are so necessary for both the health and continued growth of our town. The best committee for me to be on would be the BOS Interview Committee for I am amazing at leadership and choice selection. Do you often think that you would be suited for another position but you’re stuck because no one sees your potential? Sometimes I’m weak but you have to do it.

The other committee that I’ll choose because it was suggested to choose two is the Trails Committee. I previously said I walk, didn’t I? Maselli - As a select-person, I am looking forward to creating and participating in the

Implementation Committee to carry forward the peoples wishes identified in the 2020 Master Plan; to create and work with a Downtown Revitalization Committee to bring the town offices back to their original location at 4 West Main Street; be instrumental in a resurgence of prosperous businesses for all to enjoy. I would also like to introduce a Green Initiative Committee to incorporate sustainability into all new projects. Most importantly, I am looking forward to serving harmoniously with the Select Board to represent our constituents’ needs and wants.

Perreault - The selectmen each act as liaison to a subset of the other Town boards and committees. I serve as liaison to the Planning Board and was the Selectmen’s representative on the Master Plan Steering Committee, whose work is now concluded. The next phase for the Master Plan will be to create an implementation committee to begin acting on the recommendations; I anticipate maintaining a close association with that work.

Rogers - I look forward to working with the Planning

Board as projects from the Northborough Master Plan are prioritized for implementation. We have an opportunity for developing downtown, supporting commercial development, improving public facilities, and enhancing our open spaces. Although we may not have funds for immediate starts, now is a good time for more detailed planning.

What is the primary problem you feel the town is facing and what do you think should be done to rectify it?

Dalton - The problem with the town is a complete economic meltdown after an unforeseen medical pandemic.

Nothing like what’s been part of our country for over 100 years. The richest person in town to the poorest person were all on the same boat as it was sinking. The answer to everything should have been an honest answer, “WE DON’T KNOW.” Instead, they kept on quoting HIPAA. The only number that matters when the town’s on fire is ‘HEALTH’.

All other matters needed to wait. Taking my Dad’s lead as an MIT and Raytheon man we

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Maselli - We are living through a never before experienced pandemic. There are no definitive past experiences we can rely on to prepare for our health and economic future.

It is a collective worry and we will have to work together to stop the losses and rebuild intelligently. For starters, previously appropriated capital expenditures need to be carefully reviewed to see how the post-crisis economic environment impacts our revenues.

This is the time for innovation, not past history. We have seen what business as usual looks like, now a fresh perspective is necessary in the unchartered waters we face today. I can offer that and ask for your vote for Board of Selectmen.

Perreault - COVID-19 has had an enormous impact on health, employment, education, commerce, and social contact. It is difficult to forecast how long these effects will linger and how quickly life will return to the “old normal”. The Town’s financial methodology implemented over the last

decade has minimized our vulnerability and puts Northborough on much firmer financial footing to weather this storm than many of our surrounding communities. We need to stay calm, understand all factors as fully as we can, and plan and act rationally; not rashly and prematurely based on unfounded assumptions about what the future may hold. The entire community must collaborate to protect our health, support necessary adaptations to education delivery, and provide a safety net for neighbors most in need.

Rogers - I am troubled, however, by what seems to be a division in Northborough. Some see the consensus between town staff, boards, and committees in the last 10 years as everyone working together towards a common purpose. Others have developed a perception that decisions are simply rubber-stamped. I have heard dichotomies of Leadership vs. Followership and Status Quo vs. Change. My objective is to reduce this division, listen to all recommendations, and make constructive changes when warranted.

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Residents across region protest against racial injustice and police brutality Protests | from page 1

By Bonnie Adams Managing Editor

PHOTO/ADWAY WADEKAR

Above: Protesters at Westborough’s vigil June 7.

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

City Council continues McGee public hearing to July 20

Left: Four protesters kneel at the Northborough protest June 3.

By Vicki Greene Contributing Writer

Right: Police joining protesters in taking a knee at the Northborough protest June 3.

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

Below: (l to r) Tammy Pedjoe, Caitlin Kane and Rebecca Aanane organized a day long protest at the Shrewsbury Town Common June 6.

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

PHOTO/MELANIE PETRUCCI

A NAME YOU CAN TRUST

REGION – As much of the country erupted into angry violent protests following the death of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man who died May 25 after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee into Floyd’s neck for nearly nine minutes, protests and vigils throughout the Community Advocate readership area also were held.

Fortunately, for the most part, the events were peaceful and full of contemplation, with only a few isolated negative comments or gestures made towards protesters.

In Northborough and Shrewsbury, student-led events, including a night time vigil hosted by Shrewsbury High School’s Black History Club, drew protesters of all ages. At Grafton’s protest, police officers, including Police Chief Normand A. Crepeau, Jr., took a knee in solidarity with protesters. And in Westborough, nearly 300 residents gathered for a vigil that featured several local faith leaders as well as children who read poignant poetry that expressed the anguish and confusion many adults are now also feeling.

For details on the different local events, visit www.communityadvocate.com.

Protesters at Grafton’s vigil June 4.

MARLBOROUGH – Originally scheduled for June 8, a public hearing regarding a proposed 188-unit development on the site of the former McGee Veterinary/Farm property on Route 20 has been rescheduled to July 20.

Attorney Brian Falk submitted a special permit request on behalf of WP Marlborough MA Owner, LLC based in Stamford, CT. Falk presented the details to the Council at its meeting on May 18. At that meeting, the Council voted to send the matter to the Urban Affairs Committee and scheduled the public hearing for June 8.

Council President Michael Ossing said the hearing was rescheduled because the Zoning

Board and Conservation Commission were both continuing discussions and changes could be made to the original site plan.

“The Council should review the latest version before making any decisions,” he said.

The “high-end residential” project, to be known as Volaris Marlborough, would consist of 188 units in four buildings along with garages, parking spaces, landscaping “open space and walking trails.” The property is located at 339 Boston Post Road (Route 20).

There has been an online petition and numerous emails and calls to Councilors from residents with concerns regarding, traffic, impact on wetlands, loss of green space and potential impact on the schools.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 9

Summer fun!

Boroughs Loop connects trail networks of four communities

By Brett Peruzzi Contributing Writer

A new way to cafe!

Summer fun!

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

REGION -The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle said that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and the Boroughs Loop Trail (BLT) is a good example of that principle.

The BLT connects the trail networks of Marlborough, Southborough, Westborough, and Northborough to create a regional trail that facilitates exploring and enjoying the natural beauty and open space in all four communities. Opened in October, 2019, it offers 24 miles of walking paths that will increase to 33 miles when the project is completed. Representatives of the communities, in collaboration with Sudbury Valley Trustees, a regional land trust, integrated the trail components with the help of a large group of volunteers who dedicated over 2,000 hours to the project.

Among the tasks that needed to be completed were clearing and constructing trail sections to connect existing pathways, building boardwalks, stairs, and bog bridges, and adding signage. There are also numerous parking areas designated on the trail map so trail users can enter the trail from various points, depending on the section they want to tackle.

“I joined representatives from the four communities in regular meetings over several years to work on carrying out the goal of creating a loop that would connect many of the trails, highlighting natural areas in the Boroughs region,” said Dan Stimson, assistant director of stewardship for Sudbury Valley Trustees. “SVT was able to share mapping resources to help in the inventory and planning of a route, creating interactive

(Above and left) Cider Knoll, Marlborough

Loop | 10

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10 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

Summer fun!

Boroughs Loop connects trail networks of four communities

Summer fun!

Loop | from page 9

maps that we used to identify key locations to include in the Loop, and areas where new trail links would be needed and would be possible to successfully complete.”

Originally conceived in 2014 through a feasibility study commissioned by the Marlborough Economic Development Corporation, the project was funded by the State DCR Recreational Trails Grant Program, the Marlborough Rotary Club, and the city of Marlborough DPW and the Conservation Commission. The BLT passes through a variety of terrain and connects walking trails, bike paths, aqueduct trails, and sidewalks. Hikers, walkers, and runners are welcome on all parts of the trail. The trail map is color-coded to indicate which sections allow mountain biking and dog walking. In the age of the coronavirus pandemic and the need for social distancing while still enjoying outdoor exercise, the trail provides a plethora of opportunities.

The BLT passes through a variety of terrain, from a long stretch of placid woodlands borderLoop | 11

Chestnut Hill, Southborough

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 11

Summer fun!

Boroughs Loop connects trail networks of four communities Loop | from page 9

Summer fun!

ing the Sudbury Reservoir to the Marlborough-Sudbury State Forest, over several hilltops, including Indian Head Hill in Marlborough, and Cedar Hill and the vast wetlands of Crane Swamp in Westborough. Much of the trail utilizes portions of the 20 miles of trails in Northborough that are managed by the Northborough Trails Committee. The section that follows the Assabet River Rail Trail that runs from Marlborough to Hudson provides opportunities for users on foot or bicycle to get lunch or other refreshments from the many nearby businesses it passes in downtown Hudson.

It also passes through the campuses of Marlborough High School and Algonquin Regional High School, and uses an overpass to cross Route 495. Care must be taken at the various at-grade road crossings that are required, however.

“Many of the trails that make up the BLT have been enjoyed for years, but with the recent work to link up these areas, there are new opportunities for longer hikes,” Stimson noted. “The new connections also provide links to larger natural areas from countless neighborhoods. We’ve tried to show these side trails on our maps, so that your explorations don’t need to be limited by the 33 miles of trail designated as the BLT.” If you would like to get more information or volunteer to work on the unfinished BLT sections, or maintain any of the completed ones, there is a designated contact person for each community. Contact Priscilla Ryder, pryder@marlborough-ma.gov for Marlborough; Don Burn, burn@windrvr.com for Westborough; Mia McDonald, mmcdonald@ town.northborough.ma.us for Northborough; and Melissa Danza, mdanza@southboroughma.com or Kathryn McKee, kmckee@southboroughma.com for Southborough.

Trail maps for the Boroughs Loop Trail can be obtained on the Sudbury Valley Trustees website at https://www.svtweb.org/properties/page/boroughs-loop-trail.

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

Sudbury Reservoir Trail, Southborough

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Summer fun!

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MARLBOROUGH – This summer, many of us will be rearranging our vacation plans, staying a bit closer to home.

That’s why it’s a great time to head outside to our yards, parks or bodies of water with a pair of binoculars and see the many different types of birds there are in our region.

Alan Graham of Marlborough is an avid birdwatcher and photographer. Here is a selection of the many photos he has taken that truly show the beauty, joy and wonder of our fine feathered friends.

For tips on birdwatching visit https://www.audubon. org/birding.

Summer fun!

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 13

Summer fun!

Shrewsbury Farmers Market is ready to open – with social distancing

By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter SHREWSBURY – Organizers of the Shrewsbury Farmers Market are ready for another summer season but this year the market is going to look a little bit different because of COVID-19.

Mark those calendars for opening day, Wednesday, June 17. The market will then run every Wednesday through Sept.

30, weather permitting. Market hours are 2:30 – 6:30 p.m. and will again be located at the Shrewsbury Senior Center parking lot, 98 Maple Ave. The impact of COVID-19 to the market has presented several challenges this season.

However, Melisa Hollenback, founder of the market and her team (including co-manager Whitney DeCiccio and Norma Chanis) have assessed the challenges and developed a protocol with a market layout that has been approved by the town.

“The town has been really great working with us. We’ve had a lot of meetings going back and forth about the layout; we’ve been working hard on this…,” Hollenback shared, noting the contributions of Assistant Town Manager Kristen Las. Hollenback said that the first half hour will be designated for those over 60 years of age or people with mobility and/or health issues.

Everyone must wear face coverings and the vendors will be wearing gloves. There will be a hand washing station and hand sanitizer at the entrance of the market and sanitizer throughout the market.

“We will only be allowing 40 people into the market at a time,” Hollenback said. “And the market will also be one way only.”

The idea is to keep the traffic moving in one direction, just like at a super market. If one were to forget an item they would need to continue through and make another loop. Turning around will be discouraged. Markers of where to stand will also be in place to help people distance themselves.

What is really exciting, according to Hollenback, is that they are working out a system

for online ordering and curbside pick-up. This is something that she has wanted for a long-time.

“The really big difference between a farmers market and a grocery store is that you cannot touch the product. It’s a rule of open air farmers markets that I hope that will change soon,” she said.

The rule is one of the guidelines from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health that governs farmers markets.

Additionally, there will be no activities for children and no non-food vendors such as crafts, etc.

Patrons may bring their own reusable shopping bags but they will need to bag their own purchases.

When asked about this year’s vendors, Hollenback explained, “We were worried that our farmers wouldn’t be

coming back because one of the really amazing things is that people are truly appreciating local food, because of the pandemic…Local farms and [Community-supported agriculture programs] are having a renaissance now.”

Thankfully, she noted, many of them are coming back and there will be a number of new vendors this year that she is looking forward to, such as ice cream.

Hollenback also expects that the market will be very busy this season because more people are working from home and will have a chance to visit when, in the past, they could not.

For a participating vendors list and further information visit http://shrewsburyfarmersmarket.com.

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14 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

Summer fun!

Area parks and playgrounds REGION – Looking for a beautiful spot to spend a summer day outdoors? Why not gather the kids or your favorite companions, pack up beach gear or hiking shoes, along with the makings of a picnic,

and visit one of our local parks or preserves?

For more information about any of the town-owned destinations, including parking or use fees and hours of operation, contact the

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town’s Recreation Department (see Recreation Departments in this supplement). For more information about nearby state parks, visit the websites indicated.

(Note - This listing was updated as of early June 2020 but due the pandemic some information may change. Check with local municipalities for the latest updates.)

GRAFTON Grafton Recreation Dept., 30 Providence Road, 508-839-5335, ext. 1156 Website: www.graftonrec.com NOTE: Town and school playgrounds are closed. Parks and fields will remain open but social distancing protocols are mandatory.

Airport Park, 8 Bedford Road Brookmeadow Park, 377 Providence Road Fisher/Ferry St. Park, 115 Ferry St. Grafton Common, 1 Grafton Common Grafton High School, 24 Providence Road Grafton Lions’ Club, 68 Brigham Hill Road

9102 Shops Way, Northborough • (508) 936-1900

North Grafton Elementary School, 44 Waterville St. North Street Elementary School, 60 North St. Perry Hill Park, 3 Perry St. Riverview Park, 176 Providence Road

South Grafton Elementary School, 90 Main St.

Mill Villages Park, 61 Main St.

HUDSON Hudson Recreation Dept., 78 Main St., 978-568-9642

Millbury St. Elementary School, 105 Millbury St.

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Nelson Park, 6 Prentice St.

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recreation facilities are currently closed until further notice: -W.C. Dek Hockey Rink -Hudson Skate Park -Riverside Tennis Courts -Basketball Courts, including those at schools -Playgrounds, including those at schools Apsley Park, 65 Park St. Assabet River Rail Trail, visit www.arrtinc.org Boutwell Fields, 119 Chapin Road Cellucci Skate & Splash Park, 37 South St. Centennial Beach, 89 Fort Meadow Drive Season passes can be purchased at the Recreation Office in the Town Hall, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Parks | 15

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Summer fun!

Parks | from page 14

Marlborough High School, 431 Bolton St.

Cherry Street Field & Playground, 61 Cherry St.

Memorial Beach, Hosmer Street

Farina Field, 72 Cox St.

Richer School, 80 Foley Road

Farley Elementary School, 106 Packard St.

Whitcomb Middle School, 25 Union St. PHOTO/CHERYL ARSENAULT

Liberty Park, 5 Washington St.

Jaworek School, 444 Hosmer St.

Kane School, 520 Farm Road

Morgan Bowl, 120 Chapin Road

Jericho Hill, 496 Brigham St.

Kelleher Field, Jefferson Street

Moultons Field and Playground, 21 Marion St.

John Street Playground, John Street

Korean Veterans Field, 15 Milham St.

Mulready Elementary School, 306 Cox St.

Howard Street Park, 45 Howard St. Memorial and Casey Fields, East Main St. Parks | 16

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Sauta Fields and Playground, 539 Main St.

Farrell Fields, 85 Sawin St.

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Riverside Park and Fields, 122 Chapin Road

Duca Playground, corner of Rice and Bolton streets

Hiking trails: Algonquin, Carlstrom Forest, Carney Park, Edmund Hill, Mt. Pisgah, Watson Park and Yellick Conservation Area www.town.northborough.ma.us/ trails-committee/pages/trailinformation-and-maps

Ward Park, Orchard Street

Lamson Park/Tripps Pond, 89 River St.

Colaianni Playground, First Road

Ellsworth-McAfee Park, South St. (Rt.135)

Union Common, Main Street

Hudson Skate Park, 29 South St.

Byrne Field, Hawkins Lane

Assabet Park, South St. (Rt.135)

Stevens Park, Martin Street

Hudson High School, 69 Brigham St.

NOTE: Marlborough has temporarily closed all playgrounds and outdoor courts (basketball, tennis, etc.) exercise equipment areas, and skate park.

Algonquin Regional High School, 79 Bartlett St.

Simpson Playground, Simpson Road

Forest Avenue School, 138 Forest Ave.

MARLBOROUGH Marlborough Recreation Dept., 239 Concord Road, 508-624-6925 Website: https://mrd.recdesk.com

NOTE: In Northborough, the pavilion, splash pad and playgrounds will remain closed until further notice.

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16 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

Parks | from page 15

Lincoln Street Elementary School, 76 Lincoln St.

Summer fun!

Proctor Elementary School, 26 Jefferson Road Zeh Elementary School, 33 Howard St.

Melican Middle School, 145 Lincoln St. Peaslee Elementary School, 31 Maple St.

SHREWSBURY Shrewsbury Parks and Recreation Dept., 100 Maple

Need a Message of Hope?

NOTE: Shrewsbury has closed Restrooms at all parks and fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, playgrounds, the Donahue Rowing Center, and the Shrewsbury High School Athletic Complex.

Town parks, trails and the Middle School and Elementary School campuses are open for passive recreation only.

Arrowwood Park, Arrowwood Avenue

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Beal School, 1 Maple Ave.

Lake Street Park, 590 Lake St.

Coolidge School, May/Florence St.

Maple Avenue Fields, 100 Maple Ave.

Dean Park, 785 Main St.

Melody Lane, off Route 140 South

Donahue Rowing Center, 237 N. Quinsigamond Ave.

Municipal Fields, Maple Ave.

Edgemere Park, Edgemere Blvd.

Northshore Fields, Parker Road, off North Quinsigamond

Floral Street School, 57 Floral St.

Oak Middle School, 45 Oak St.

Gauch Park, corner of North Quinsigamond and Main St.

Paton School, 58 Grafton St.

Greylock Park, Avon Ave. off Phillips Ave. Hillando Park, Hillando Drive off Walnut Street Hills Farm, corner of Stoney Hill and Deer Run Ireta Road Park, Ireta Road off West Main St.

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Jordan Pond, Acadia National Park, Florence St. behind Coolidge School

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Prospect Park, 65 Prospect St. Rotary Park, Pond View Drive off Old Mill Road Sherwood Middle School, 30 Sherwood Ave.

Tobin Hills, Tobin Hill, off Walnut St. Town Common, corner of Main St. and Route 140 SOUTHBOROUGH Southborough Recreation Dept., 21 Highland St., 508-229-4452 www.southboroughrec.com/ NOTE: All parks and playgrounds are closed until further notice.

9-11 Memorial Field, 9 Acre Bridge Road Beals Preserve & Walking Trails: access from Route 30 (Main Street), Red Gate Lane, Hickory Road, or the Sudbury Reservoir Trail

Shrewsbury High School, 64 Holden St.

Breakneck Hill Conservation Land (Walking Trails), Breakneck Hill Road

Spring Street School, 123 Spring St.

Fayville Park, Central Street, Fayville

Ternberry, Audubon, off Old Mill Road

Finn Elementary School, 60 Richards Road

Parks | 17

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 17

Summer fun!

Summer fun!

Parks | from page 16

Harold E. Fay Memorial Field and Playground, Central St. Kallander Field, Kallander Drive Liberty Estates Field, Liberty Road Lundblad Field, 53 Parkerville Road

Gibbons Middle School, 20 Fisher St.

Trust, www.westboroughlandtrust.org/index.php

Hadley Field/ HaskellTennis Courts, 50 Haskell St.

Westborough High School, 90 West Main St.

Hastings School, 111 East Main St.

NEARBY STATE PARKS

Hennessy Fields, 1 Upton Road

Middle Road Field, Middle Road

Hyder Park, 28 1/2 Hyder St.

Neary School, 53 Parkerville Road

Lake Chauncy Beach, 60 Lyman St.

Richardson Tennis Courts, 53 Parkerville Road

PHOTO/CHERYL ARSENAULT

WESTBOROUGH Westborough Recreation Dept., 34 West Main St., 508-366-3066 www.westbororec.com

Bay State Green, 10 Union St.

Chauncy Fields, 10 Hospital Road

Trottier Middle School, 49 Parkerville Road

NOTE: All playgrounds, tennis/ pickleball courts, basketball courts, fields and Lake Chauncy are closed until further notice.

Woodward Memorial School, 28 Cordaville Road

Armstrong Elementary School, 18 Fisher St.

St. Mark’s School, 25 Marlboro Road South Union Playground, 21 Highland St.

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Bowman Conservation Area/Sandra Pond, 72 Bowman St.

Mill Pond School, 6 Olde Hickory Path Minuteman Park/Sandra Pond, 71 Upton Road Rogers Fields, 4 Rogers Road

Fales School, 50 Eli Whitney St.

Veterans Freedom Park, 169 West Main St.

Greg’s Field, 66 Upton Road

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Ashland State Park 156 W. Union Street, Ashland, 508-881-0140 Nearly 500 acres, including the 150-acre Ashland Reservoir that can be used for swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, bicycling and hiking. Wheelchair access to the boathouse and the pond.

Visit www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/ northeast/ashl.htm for more info.

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Parks | 18

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18 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

Summer fun!

Summer fun!

Parks | from page 17

Quinsigamond State Park 10 North Lake Avenue, Worcester, 508-755-6880 Consists of Regatta Point and Lake Park on west side of Lake Quinsigamond, with swimming, sailing, boating, picnicking, tennis and fishing. Boating includes 2,000-meter rowing course.

Visit www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/ central/quin.htm for more info.

gov/dcr/parks/northeast/call.htm for more info.

Douglas State Forest 107 Wallum Lake Road, Douglas, 508-476-7872 Forested 4,640 acres, including Wallum Lake, for swimming, boating and fishing, along with hiking, horseback riding and picnicking.

Two boat ramps, boardwalk trail through five-acre swamp. Part of the Midstate Trail, a hiking trail through central Massachusetts.

Visit www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/ central/doug.htm for more info.

Great Brook Farm State Park 984 Lowell St., Carlisle, 978-369-6312 1,000 acres of farmland, pasture, with remnants of 17th-century dwellings and mills, and 20 miles of trails. Present day farming includes Holsteins. Public barn tours available on weekends.

PHOTO/CHERYL ARSENAULT

Hopkinton State Park 164 Cedar Street, Hopkinton, 508-435-4303 Contains 1,500 acres of summer fun, including swimming, boating, bicycling, hiking and picnicking.

Visit www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/ northeast/hpsp.htm for more info.

Purgatory Chasm State Reservation Purgatory Road (off Route 146), Sutton, 508-234-3733 Features deep chasm with granite walls and unique rock formations, for hiking, exploring and picnicking. Visit www.mass. gov/dcr/parks/central/purg.htm for more info.

Upton State Forest Westborough Road, Upton, (508) 435-4303 Forested 2,600 acres for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding.

Visit www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/ northeast/uptn.htm for more info.

Wachusett Mountain State Reservation 345 Mountain Road, Princeton, 978-464-2987 Encompasses 3,000 acres around 2,006-foot Mount Wachusett and 17 miles of hiking trails, including nearly four miles

of the Midstate Trail, a hiking trail through central Massachusetts.

Scenic vistas, birdwatching, picnicking. Visit www.mass.gov/ dcr/parks/central/wach.htm for more info.

Walden Pond State Reservation 915 Walden Street, Concord, 978-369-3254 Wooded 462 acres of protected open space, with 102-foot deep glacial kettle-hole Walden Pond.

Swimming, hiking, fishing, picnicking, visiting replica of Henry David Thoreau’s one-room cabin.

Visit www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/ walden/index.htm for more info.

Whitehall State Park Route 135, Hopkinton, 508-435-4303 Dominated by 600-acre Whitehall Reservoir, with boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking on the small islands. Boat ramp.

Visit www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/ northeast/whit.htm for more info.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 19

Summer fun!

Friends of the Prospect Park invite community to come, volunteer and enjoy the park

Summer fun!

By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter

PHOTOS/MELANIE PETRUCCI

SHREWSBURY - The Garden of Sweet Remembrance is a hidden gem in Shrewsbury. Tucked away in Prospect Park, the garden was once a part of the majestic estate known as Juniper Hall. It was built in 1912 and was the home of the late Matthew and Gertrude Whittall.

The town had acquired the land in 1976. Unfortunately, it fell to disrepair and the pergola/gazebo (still standing) withstood years of graffiti and vandalism as well as abuse from Mother Nature. Past attempts to restore the garden had been compromised by events such as the ice storm of 2008 and lack of sufficient resources.

Local Master Gardener Brenda Nagel Goodwill became interested in the site after a visit that she described as “magi-

(l to r) Bill Davis, Brenda Nagel Goodwill and Christopher Dirk at the Garden of Sweet Remembrance at Prospect Park

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cal.” After connecting with the Friends of Prospect Park (FOPP), she then spearheaded a recent effort to reclaim the space and make it a destination for people to visit.

The group organized a work day event last August. Subsequent work days were held throughout the fall. Much progress has been made to the garden which can be accessed by a road from the park’s main entrance off of Prospect Street and a trailhead at the dead end of Vega Drive.

“It was our goal last September to get something into the ground,” Goodwill explained.

“When we walked in, the weeds were as tall as us in the whole area. The first two work days were spent clearing and weed whacking and we had 25 or 30 people who volunteered.”

She added that 36 cubic Prospect Park | 21

20 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

Summer fun!

Westborough’s Sugar Shack strives to continue providing opportunities for students

Summer fun!

By Morgan Hume Contributing Writer WESTBOROUGH - Like many small businesses nowadays, the Sugar Shack candy store in Westborough needs support from the community if they are to continue operating.

Due to the coronavirus, the local candy shop closed in-person shopping in compliance with statewide restrictions.

Since then, Manager Kristen Dadah Wall said the store has looked different as stronger sanitation procedures have been put in place, employees are wearing face masks, and there is no loose candy for sale.

When the store eventually reopens to the public, there will be social distancing precautions in place.

In the meantime, the Sugar Shack has continued taking

Some of the treats at the Sugar Shack

orders online, selling everything from graduation gift sets to boxes filled with movie theater favorites at a variety of price points. The store offers curbside pickup and free delivery service throughout Westborough on Wednesdays and Fridays on orders of $20 or more.

But the Sugar Shack does more than fix a sweet tooth on

Main Street. The store is also the on-site learning lab for students in the Westborough Public Schools’ Bridging Over to Right Opportunities (BORO) program.

The program aims to give opportunities for adult students ages 18-22, with special abilities, the opportunity to practice business and retail skills. A portion of sales from

the store also goes back to supporting the BORO program.

“It’s important that we keep sustained because without the store, the students don’t have the vocational learning opportunity,” said BORO Program Coordinator Erin LaPrad.

Dadah Wall and LaPrad said they miss having the students working alongside them, but they have been keeping the

students engaged by giving them updates on any changes to the store. They hope that the students are looking forward to the improvements the shop has made recently and the fun tasks they will be assigned when they are able to return.

“It’s part of their schedules and it’s something that they really enjoy doing, beSugar Shack | 21

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Summer fun!

Westborough’s Sugar Shack strives to continue providing opportunities for students

Summer fun!

Sugar Shack | from page 20

tween working and packaging products and engaging with customers,” said Dadah Wall.

“They really did enjoy being here on a regular basis, so I know there’s quite a few students who miss their time here at the Sugar Shack.”

With the loss of foot traffic and passersby popping in for a treat, the Sugar Shack is working hard to keep customers in the loop as much as possible on their Facebook and Instagram accounts. Dadah Wall and LaPrad have been trying to increase the shop’s social media presence and build a stronger online audience. They said they hope to develop a robust online platform by the time students come back.

“We’ve been trying to increase our followers so that

Friends of the Prospect Park invite community to come, volunteer and enjoy the park

customers know we’re still here, what’s going on, that we appreciate the support they’ve given us and that we are constantly launching and doing new things,” said Dadah Wall.

Since opening its doors in November of 2018, one year after the BORO program launched, the Sugar Shack has

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been a part of Westborough community, and they hope to stay that way. Dadah Wall said they need to come out of these hard times as strong as possible.

“We want to be part of the community,” she said. “We want this community to be part of the Sugar Shack.”

Prospect Park | from page 19

yards of topsoil was brought in to fill in what was once a reflecting pool to make it a focal point with flowers.

“We put out the word to our volunteers and the people of Shrewsbury and people started dropping flower materials off at my house,” she added. “We now have coreopsis, iris, lilies, lambs ear, Russian sage, black-eyed Susan and wild phlox.”

Bill Davis, a member of the group, shared: “Recently, because of the pandemic, it has become a popular place to visit, especially on the weekends.”

The FOPP exists primarily on private donations.

“This was going to be our big fundraising year. We were looking at doing memorial bricks and offering benches as a way to fundraise,” Goodwill explained.

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funds to restore the pergola/ gazebo which is estimated to cost roughly $40,000. The fundraiser will hopefully take place next year.

She said the focus this year will be on maintaining and clearing out the garden and planting purposeful plants.

“The door is open to come up here and spend an hour a week and put your hands in the dirt and help us keep the area clear of debris,” Goodwill said.

Goodwill concluded by thanking the Shrewsbury Parks and Recreation Department for their support and working alongside them in managing the garden.

To get involved, visit the Friends of Prospect Park Facebook page or contact Goodwill directly at 412-337-0107 or goodwillgardeningservice@ gmail.com.

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22 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

Summer fun!

Northborough trails provide miles of recreation for hikers and walkers

Summer fun!

By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter

PHOTOS/MELANIE PETRUCCI

NORTHBOROUGH – Northborough offers hikers and walkers well over 40 miles of trails that are open from dawn to dusk. Within this network, there is something for everyone at all skill levels with a variety of terrains.

“Longtime Northborough resident Arthur Cole said that a lot of the existing trails were in places where farmworkers would walk from one farm to another and cut through the wetlands and the rocky areas and the forests where you couldn’t plant anything,” said Bob Mihalek, Trails Committee chair.

“Cole then, as he got older and retired, wanted to mark these trails that were no longer

Mt. Pisgah Trails

Carney Park Trails

in service to the farmers and have them recognized on an official level for the town so that the people could use them” he continued.

The idea for a Trails Committee was then launched and it was established through the Open Space Committee as a

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subcommittee which would report to the committee at their business meetings. Now they have their own meetings.

The town’s 11 trails encompass a variety of landscapes from wooded forest and scenic vistas to wetlands and trails formed on glacial Lake Assabet.

Mt. Pisgah Trails boast a view of Boston on a clear day. There’s the Edmund Hill Woods Trails that features steep slopes and vernal pools.

For the wetland lovers there’s Little Chauncy and Cedar Hill Trails with a boardwalk through a wet meadow,

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and one can enjoy Watson Park Trails with views of Bartlett Pond and fields that form a habitat for bluebirds and a butterfly garden.

A favorite area for dog owners is Carney Park/Cold Harbor Trail with beautiful views of the watershed area and the Cold Harbor Trail winding its way.

“I love to see dogs on the trail and for them to get out and get some exercise,” said Mihalek, adding that the trails are part of the town and the town’s leash law is in effect at all times. Those with dogs are also expected to clean up after their pets.

Other trails include Carlstrom II Forest, Yellick Conservation Area, Stirrup Brook Trail, Assabet Park Trail, Green Acres Trails and the MWRA Aqueduct Recreational Trails.

The all-volunteer Trails Committee is charged with maintaining the existing trails.

With over 40 miles of there is always something that needs to be done such as clearing downed trees and trimming and cutting grass.

Mihalek credited local Boy Scouts who have been instrumental in helping with maintenance as they earn their service hours and as individual Scouts earn their Eagle Scout rank.

The committee was awarded a grant through the open space provision of the Community Preservation Act and plans to place markers for each of the trails in town.

For more information about Northborough Trails, email the committee at ntc01532@ gmail.com or visit http://www. northboroughtrails.org.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 23

Summer fun!

Local farms gearing up for a very different growing season

Summer fun!

By Matthew Dunn Contributing Writer

PHOTO/SUE OGAR

NORTHBOROUGH - Local farms are adapting to a “new normal” amidst a global pandemic, and in doing so putting measures in place to ensure community members are still able to access locally grown produce and farm products.

A staple of the spring season is the opening of farm stands and farmer’s markets, and while this season presents many new, unprecedented challenges, local farms are still growing their yearly crops with the hopes that customers can still take advantage of local agriculture.

Established in 1925 in Northborough, Berberian’s Farm started as a wholesale business selling to local grocery stores and markets. In 1965, Berberian’s opened its own farm stand to sell produce directly to members of the community. Entering their farm stand’s 55th season, however, new precautions will be put into place for customers to be able to shop at their farm stand while obeying all required social distancing and health policies.

According to owner Michael Berberian, “we’ve built barricades at the registers with plexiglass, put safety precaution signs on the floors, and put signs in front of the store limiting 10 people inside at a time.”

When asked if he believes the current circumstances will change business or demand for their produce, Berberian said, “My phone has been going crazy over the last month….

Because of this pandemic, everyone is thinking about their health a lot more and opening their eyes up to something that might be better for them.”

Early season crops slated to be available at Berberian’s Farm include rhubarb, chives, mint and container-grown lettuce. As the growing season progresses, more lettuce, corn, herbs, spinach, radishes and a host of other produce varieties will become available.

Yellick’s Farm, a small farm established in 2016 and also located in Northborough, is

Yellick Farm

hoping to offer the community a variety of produce, herbs, and flowers throughout the season.

“There’s an increase in people wanting to grow their own food which is great, and I’m also seeing an increase in people wanting to eat/buy local,”

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noted owner Kerrie Tetreault-Yellick. “People like to know where their food comes from, and see the process.....not just coming from plastic packaging in the store.”

Despite diff i c u l t c i rc u m stances for many, Tetreault-Yellick knows there is more to a local farm than just a place people can go and buy vegetables.

“It’s a sense of community – a familiar place for them,” she said.

Yellick’s Farm also remains committed to implementing

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Farms | 24

24 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

Summer fun!

Local farms gearing up for a very different growing season Farms | from page 23

and also offer curbside pickup and local delivery in town if someone can’t get out,” Tetreault-Yellick said. “We’ll see how it goes, but we just want to keep everyone safe...We’re

social distancing and precautionary measures for its customers.

“We’re going to require masks and social distancing,

Summer fun!

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 25

Summer fun!

Manage mosquitoes for a safer and more enjoyable summer

By Melinda Myers REGION - Don’t let the buzz of mosquitoes keep you indoors. Most mosquitoes are a nuisance, causing rashes and itching but some species can transmit diseases that can make you sick. Understanding how they breed and spread disease can help you gain the upper hand in the battle against these pesky insects.

Mosquitoes serve as a carrier (vector) in the spread of certain diseases. It starts when they feed on an animal infected with heartworms or an animal or person with West Nile, Saint Louis Encephalitis, Zika or other mosquito-vectored disease.

The young heartworm or virus is taken in with the mosquito’s blood meal. The heartworm larvae or virus is then transmitted to other organisms when the mosquito feeds on them.

Always take precautions when traveling to other regions. Find out about the health risks of the area and come prepared. Consult with your doctor and be sure to pack repellent and the appropriate clothing.

At home, start by eliminating mosquito breeding grounds. These insects need standing water to reproduce.

The larvae hatch and feed on tiny organisms in the water.

Once they morph into adults, they leave the water and look for animals and people to dine upon.

Get rid of any standing

water to eliminate breeding grounds in your landscape.

Clean clogged gutters where water can collect and mosquitoes can breed. Empty water that collects in any items left outside. Change the water in your birdbath at least once a week or anytime you water your container gardens.

Toss an organic mosquito control, like Mosquito Dunks and Mosquito Bits (SummitResponsibleSolutions.com) into your rain barrel, pond or other water feature. Mosquito Bits quickly knock down the mosquito larval population, while Mosquito Dunks provide 30 days of mosquito control. The active ingredient is Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, a naturally occurring soil bacterium that kills the mosquito larvae but is safe for children, fish, pets, beneficial insects

and wildlife.

Invite the songbirds into your back yard with birdhouses, birdbaths and feeders. Most of them feed on insects, including mosquitoes and gar-

den pests, while adding color, motion and beauty to your landscape.

Keep the garden weeded. Mosquitoes rest in shrubs, trees and weeds during the day.

Removing weeds and managing neglected garden spaces will make your landscape less inviting to these pests.

Further protect yourself by wearing light-colored clothing, long sleeves and long pants when enjoying the outdoors.

Apply EPA-approved repellents as directed on the label.

Use a fan when sitting on the porch or even working in the garden. The gentle breeze helps keep the weak-flying mosquitoes away.

Then add a bit of ambience to your next party by lighting a few citronella candles. Citronella oil and the scented

candles do have some mosquito-repelling properties. Scatter lots of candles throughout the party and within a few feet of your guests for some shortterm relief.

And be sure to keep mosquitoes out of your house. Repair windows and screens that may be providing easy access into your home.

Taking a few precautions will help you manage these pests so you can enjoy the outdoor summer activities you love.

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26 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

Summer fun!

Getting outside in Grafton

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breaths of fresh air, the town’s parks and protected areas are plentiful.

Grafton manages its Lake Ripple Dam property alongside the John Wilson Memorial Boat Ramp. Accessible via a parking lot at 46 Brigham Hill Road, visitors can head out on the water in their boats or fish from the shore of the town’s sprawling lake.

See historic photos of the lake and get more information via Grafton’s Conservation Commission web-page. (https:// www.grafton-ma.gov/conservation-commission/slideshows/lake-ripple-dam-johnwilson-memorial-boat-ramp).

Eight other properties offer miles of walking trails including a long loop around the 175 acre Great Meadow area.

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Want history? Visit the Hassanamesit Woods to walk old cart paths snaking past forgotten stone walls, old wells and a granite block bearing drill marks of past human activity.

Those wanting to be especially informed about the natural museum around them can read up with a special historical guide to the area (https:// www.grafton-ma.gov/sites/ graftonma/files/uploads/historyguide.pdf). Park at the end of Salisbury St. to access this property.

Interested in wildlife? See falcon nesting boxes in the Meriam Road Conservation Area after first parking at 99 Merriam Rd. Those boxes are part of an effort to help the unique species of Kestrel Falcons settle in Grafton. Such falcons are known as the smallest species of the predatory bird. Learn more via the town’s website (https://www.grafton-ma.gov/ conservation-commission/ slideshows/merriam-roadconservation-area).

See all that and much more by visiting Grafton’s green space and get informed about all the town has to offer hikers by visiting https://www. grafton-ma.gov/conservationcommission/pages/conservation-lands-trails.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 27

Summer fun!

Outdoor recreation in Westborough Jeff Pollak caught (and then released) this fish recently at Lake Chauncy in Westborough.

By Dakota Antelman Contributing Writer

PHOTO/COURTESY JEFF POLLAK

WESTBOROUGH - The project that the Westborough Community Land Trust (WCLT) has spent most of its history working on is entering a new phase, now knitting together the community with a network of trails affectionately called the “Charm Bracelet.”

Offering hiking and outdoor recreation opportunities, the land conserved by WCLT gives busy residents an opportunity to get outdoors. It also provides critical sanctuary for the region’s wildlife, sometimes mere steps from the roar of the Mass Pike.

Formed in 1997, the WCLT has conserved more than 173 acres of land in the greater Westborough region. Active stewardship through a volunteer community base allows for trail maintenance and construction, as well as the management of critically important habitat areas for local wildlife.

In a period of increased economic growth, development, and infrastructure expansion, WCLT is working to preserve the open space and natural resources of the Westborough area.

It’s doing so operating under three main goals; to conserve open space and green space in Westborough, to keep land available for passive recreation such as hiking or birdwatching; and to educate the community on conservation and open space preservation

initiatives.

As those missions have played out over the last two decades, the WCLT has particularly endeavored to connect its various projects through the Charm Bracelet initiative.

It all spurs from the work of Don Burn, a man the WCLT credits on its website as the father of the project.

Burn served on Westborough’s Open Space Preservation Committee through the 1990s and laid the groundwork for the current project when he presented a map of existing town trails to colleagues in 1999.

“Showing the map to the OSPC got the committee excited,” he wrote in a Q&A on the WCLT website.

By 2000, the then just three

year old Land Trust formally endorsed the Charm Bracelet and work commenced.

Stretching roughly 28 miles around town, the main loop trail, when finished, will connect Westborough’s green spaces in a manner modeled after Boston’s Emerald Necklace. In addition to that, Burn and the WCLT are pushing to weave up to 80 miles of offshoot trails into the eventual completed network.

The loop trail is now nearing completion, with 21 miles open to the public. It’s spur trails, meanwhile, bump the project’s total mileage to 45 miles of open walking space.

“The Charm Bracelet was established to allow people to enjoy the beautiful open space in town,” Burns writes

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A legacy of leadership and philanthropy Cummings Foundation awards $20 million in grants to nonprofits

By Bonnie Adams Managing Editor REGION – For over 50 years, Cummings Properties has been a leader in commercial real estate throughout Massachusetts. And although its founder, Bill Cummings, is a successful CEO who has earned recogni-

tion and accolades for his business acumen in the field, it may be another endeavor – Cummings Foundation – that has truly made a more significant impact on the lives of so many.

A desire to give back Almost 40 years ago, Cummings and his wife, Joyce,

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started the foundation as a way to give back to nonprofit organizations that represent the areas of social justice, human services, education and health care.

The organizations are located in three counties - Middlesex, Suffolk and Essex – where Cummings Properties manages commercial buildings.

The majority of those buildings are owned by Cummings Foundation, and are managed, at no cost to the foundation, by Cummings Properties. One of those properties is the Marlborough-based New Horizons assisted living and retirement community.

Remarkably, since its inception, the foundation has donated an astounding $280 million in grants, including a $50 million commitment to the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University in North Grafton in 2005.

Annual $20 Million Grant Program The foundation recently announced the 130 grant recipients of its $20 Million Grant Program. Each organization will receive a grant of a minimum of $100,000, while 30 nonprofits that are previous Cummings grant recipients will have their awards elevated to 10-year grants valued between $200,000 and $500,000 each.

One local recipient this

We are thrilled to receive a Cummings grant which will help us increase capacity to serve Marlborough residents over the next four years. ­— Paul Mina UWTC President and CEO year is the United Way of Tri County, which is based in Framingham and serves that city as well as Hudson and Marlborough. It will use its grant of $100,000 to increase food security for low-income residents of Marlborough by providing monthly groceries, weekly fresh produce, grocery deliveries, and SNAP registration through its food pantry programs.

“We are thrilled to receive a Cummings grant which will help us increase capacity to serve Marlborough residents over the next four years,” said Paul Mina, UWTC’s president and CEO. “This funding comes

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at a time when need is growing and this generous support will position us well to meet increasing demand.”

Marlborough-based Employment Options Inc. also received a $100,000 grant, which they will use to further expand its Catering Options social enterprise to offer additional culinary training and employment placement to individuals with disabilities.

In a year where COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on many nonprofits, forcing them to change their methods of operations and in many cases cancel major fundraisers, the foundation offered flexibility as to how organizations will use their grants, said Dennis Clarke, trustee of Cummings Foundation and chair and CEO of Cummings Properties.

“We know that these are unusual times and many organizations have expanded needs,” he said, “so we are also accelerating the timing of this year’s payment as well.”

Separate from the Cummings $20 Million Grant Program, the foundation has also contributed $500,000 to the Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund.

Previous local grant recipients have included Fresh Start Furniture Bank in Hudson, Cummings | 29

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 29

Burns Bridge lit to raise awareness about gun violence

By Ilyse Levine-Kanji Special Contributor SHREWSBURY/WORCESTER - On June 5 the Kenneth Burns Memorial Bridge joined landmarks across the United States in being lit orange to raise awareness about gun violence.

Why orange? Orange is the color that Hadiya Pendelton’s friends wore in her honor when she was shot and killed in Chicago at the age of 15 – just one week after performing in President Obama’s second inaugural parade in 2013.

In Massachusetts the largest Wear Orange event took take place virtually this year.

Wear Orange/Summer Jam is a collaborative effort between the Lena Park Community Development Corp. in Dorchester

and the Massachusetts Chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America.

Summer Jam included Lena Park youth, Massachusetts politicians, musicians, Moms volunteers and community members, who came together to “survive, strive, and thrive in this time of virus and gun epidemics.”

If you’re interested in learning more about Moms Demand Action, please contact Jo MacGugan, the Central Massachusetts Group Lead, at jomacgugan.ma@gmail.com or myself, the Survivor Lead, at ilyselevinekanji@gmail.com To learn more about Summer Jam or Wear Orange, visit: https://www.wearorangesummerjam.com or https://wearorange.org,

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A legacy of leadership and philanthropy Cummings | from page 28

Friends of the Marlborough Seniors, Metro Community Development, Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest and Thrive Support & Advocacy Inc. Normally the foundation hosts a major celebration for its grant winners each summer. This year, of course, those plans have had to be changed, and will instead be held via a Zoom call.

“Of course we are disappointed,” Clarke said, “but it will still be fun. Meeting the leaders of these great organizations and how they are helping so many, that is the best part for us.”

A legacy of societal leadership Joyce and Bill Cummings have quietly contributed to the local community for many years, doing so, Clarke said, in a very humble and low-key way.

But in May 2011, they decided to join the Giving Pledge, an organization founded by Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffet through which some of the world’s wealthiest individuals and couples have publicly pledged to donate at least half of their assets for philanthropic purposes. As such, the Cummings have already donated 90 percent of their wealth.

While most donations are to Massachusetts organizations, they have also helped to fund initiatives in Rwanda.

“They never chose to be in the spotlight,” Clarke said.

“But they believe in setting a good example of societal leadership.”

Bill Cummings has just released a new book, “Starting Small and Making It Big,” which is now available at cummings.com/book and Amazon. com.

For more information, visit www.cummingsfoundation. org.

Recycle a bike event to be held in Southborough SOUTHBOROUGH – A Green Day Recycle a Bicycle event will be held at Saint Anne’s Church, 20 Boston Road, Southborough, on Saturday June 13, from 9 a.m., to 12 p.m.

Bring your unwanted old or new bicycle and drop it off, so it can be reused again. Mountain, road, BMX, Cruiser, old (1940s to current), new adults and kids bikes are all welcome. Bikes can be picked up if you cannot bring them to the event. Contact Dennis Wood at denwaynewood@yahoo.com or 508- 277- 7513 for more information.

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30 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

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We coaches got together on ZOOM to talk about the spring baseball season, and agreed we wanted to keep the kids active in case we were able to have a season. My son, Zach, a former AVRTHS player, is home from college and here with me, so between the two of us we were able to film several segments showing some key drills that the kids can do at home, either alone or with a family member.

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the governor’s office. At this point, however, those hopes have been dashed and the only thing left is to encourage their players to find any summer baseball programs that might be opening soon. To that end, the coaches at Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School (AVRTHS) have used social media throughout the spring and taken it a step further than most.

Head Coach John Silk has been reaching out to players on the team’s Facebook page, urging them to get outside, stay in shape, and make the most of their time at home, while Coach Ross Abdelnour has been using the account to highlight individual players with a profile and a brief interview.

In the meantime, Coach Bill May, new to Assabet’s coaching roster, has taken advantage of this time to utilize his own particular skills to initiate the Assabet Baseball Show on his Youtube.com account. May is one of the instructors in the design and visual communications program at the tech

school, and among his specialties are all things video, giving him a unique platform to reach the players with various skill drills, and a bit of humor.

“We coaches got together on ZOOM to talk about the spring baseball season, and agreed we wanted to keep the kids active in case we were able to have a season. My son, Zach, a former AVRTHS player, is home from college and here with me, so between the two of us we were able to film several segments showing some key drills that the kids can do at home, either alone or with a family member,” explained May. The shows highlight defensive and hitting skills and one episode featured a special guest, Gary Burnham, Jr., an MVP and Hall of Famer from the Reading Phillies, an affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Five shows have aired to date, with a sixth in the works.

“We welcome players everywhere to take a look at these self-help videos,” May said.

They can be found on Youtube. com, under “Assabet Baseball Show.”

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 31

COMMUNITYSCHOOLS Seniors celebrated throughout the region

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A graduate celebrates Shrewsbury High School’s “Last Ride” June 3.

A family arrives at the ceremony in a highly decorated car for Algonquin Regional High School’s ceremony June 8.

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A graduate celebrates Shrewsbury High School’s “Last Ride” June 3.

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Above: Lauren Robert and Samuel Robert show off their diplomas as they pose for a photo at Algonquin Regional High School June 7.

REGION – Even though the pandemic dashed any traditional graduation ceremonies this year, local high schools still found special ways to celebrate their graduating seniors.

Clouds during the day of June 3 gave way to a fabulous and beautiful evening, which was perfect for Shrewsbury High School’s class of 2020 to make one “Last Ride” through campus.

In Westborough supportive community members gathered June 6 to congratulate the seniors with a pandemic-era vehicle parade through downtown.

The 338 seniors from the Algonquin Regional High School class of 2020 graduated during a special socially-distance ceremony June 7. Each senior and their family drove up to the ceremony during individually scheduled timeslots, with the seniors then walking across the stage to receive their diplomas.

And Marlborough High School hosted 11 different mini ceremonies June 6-7 ensure proper social distancing.

For more photos visit www.communityadvocate.com.

32 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

WHS’s class of 2020 is on the road toward graduation Brianna Rogers

By Ed Karvoski Jr. Contributing Writer WESTBOROUGH – June 6 would have been graduation day for Westborough High School’s (WHS) class of 2020.

While plans are underway for a graduation ceremony this summer on the WHS athletic field, supportive community members gathered June 6 to congratulate the seniors with a pandemic-era vehicle parade through downtown.

Westborough Spirit Committee organized the parade with support from Westborough Public Schools and families of the class of 2020. Roberta Sylvester Brown organized the parade.

“I think the seniors definitely deserve it,” she said.

Pandemic restrictions also altered traditional pregraduation activities.

May 29 was the seniors’ “last day of school.” The milestone date was observed at seniors’ homes with special deliveries of lawn signs emblazoned with a congratula-

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tory message as well as gifts donated by local businesses and residents. Deliveries were made by WHS administrators and senior class officers Rhea Balasubramanian, president; Kristi Scamurra, vice president; Alexey Khotimsky, treasurer; and Samantha Stucchi, secretary.

On the evening of June 5, seniors and immediate fam-

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ily members were invited to take a one-way, physicallydistanced stroll around the WHS track and baseball field.

There, they viewed seniors’ posters and collages depicting school memories.

On the morning of June 6 prior to the noontime parade, seniors were driven by an adult family member in a procession on the WHS campus while teachers and staff waved “hello” and “goodbye.”

With limited physical contact, graduating seniors were given items including their yearbooks, and caps and gowns.

Beginning from WHS’ back parking lot, town police motorcycles and a fire engine escorted the parade onto Ruggles Street to West Main Street and through downtown. Businesses decorated its storefronts for the occasion.

Well-wishers cheered from the sidelines. Music was provided at the rotary by deejay Sarah Linkenhoker and sponsored by realtor Gary Kelley.

The parade proceeded on East Main Street to Hastings Elementary School. Assisting along the parade route were members of Westborough Connects and Rotary Club of Westborough.

In an email sent to the seniors and their families, Principal Brian Callaghan noted that efforts are being made to determine a summer date for a graduation ceremony with safety protocols based on state and town health guidelines.

“The senior class has spoken clearly that they wish to receive their diplomas together when we can host a ceremony,” he stated.

For more photos, visit communityadvocate.com; click “Town,” then “Westborough.”

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 33

Shrewsbury superintendents share dire FY2021 forecast with School Committee

By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter SHREWSBURY – To say that the Fiscal Year 2021 budget forecast for Shrewsbury Public Schools is difficult would be an understatement. It was not looking promising before the COVID-19 pandemic but now the situation is “devastating.”

Dr. Joseph Sawyer, superintendent of schools, along with Patrick Collins, assistant superintendent for finance and operations, presented a report explaining the magnitude of the situation to the School Committee at their May 27 meeting.

“We hope that this overview and the specifics that Mr. Collins will present will help everyone who is viewing to understand the very difficult financial situation our school district will be in next year,” Sawyer stated.

The pre-COVID recommendation for FY2021 was $70,579,913 and the town manager’s recommendation was significantly less at

We hope that this overview and the specifics that Mr. Collins will present will help everyone who is viewing to understand the very difficult financial situation our school district will be in next year.

— Dr. Joseph Sawyer $67,668,322. The district was already looking to cut $1.7 million from budget projections.

Collins shared that the $1.7 million reduction plan eliminates 28.6 full-time equivalent positions and significantly reduces materials, supplies, technology and transportation line items.

As a result of COVID-19, the district was looking to make additional reductions in the amount of roughly $2 million.

Sawyer then shared what he called a “double whammy” where they expect an additional $2.2 million in unantici-

pated costs associated with the pandemic. These costs include personal protective equipment, school building mitigation measures and costs related to the educational impact of school closures - pivoting to remote learning.

“Combine those two things and you end up with a total of $4.2 million to $4.8 million as a new budget gap and I’m emphasizing that this in in addition to the $1.7 million that we already have as part of our budget plan for next year,” he continued.

Sawyer said that there are

currently too many unknowns to present a plan for additional cuts to the educational program as state funding levels will not be known until sometime in July.

Collins’ presentation echoed Sawyer’s but he delved into greater specifics. He reiterated the uncertainties surrounding federal stimulus, state aid and local receipts.

Unfortunately, Collins said that one of the complications is the uncertainty about staffing levels for the start of the school year and that there most certainly will be layoffs and furloughs.

This could be the equivalent of 65 to 75 teaching positions at an average salary of $65,000.

He emphatically said, however: “This is not our plan.”

Questions remain about the costs involved to educate medically fragile students who cannot return safely to school and covering staff absences in similar situations - personal or taking care of family members.

He also said that there is not sufficient time or money to

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operate additional bus runs to accommodate social distancing or take temperatures before the school day begins.

He explained that Shrewsbury is eligible to receive $162,060 from the CARES Act - Direct Funding to Schools program. However, $28,240 will, by law, need to be shared with private schools.

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What that will entail remains to be seen.

Committee members agreed that the situation is very serious with serious implications for school in the fall.

“I appreciate the clear-eyed assessment of what is an extreme situation here in Shrewsbury and we are not strangers to difficult budget cycles and to even occasionally dire cycles but this is unlike anything we have confronted in many years,” noted Jason Palitsch, School Committee member.

Collins noted that a second reduction plan will be presented later in the budget process.

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34 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

POLICELOG The information in the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area.

Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation.

Grafton

Monday, May 25 1:27 a.m. Arrested, Thomas E. Reilly, 60, of 11 Williams St., Auburn, for OUUI-liquor or .08%, leave scene of property damage, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation.

Saturday, May 30 8:49 p.m. Arrested, Korey Elijiah Brown, 20, of 13 Gates

St., Apt. 1, Worcester, for op MV with license suspended, warrant.

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Friday, May 29 11:18 p.m. Arrested, Naheem Jamal Schuler, 46, of homeless, Worcester, on warrant.

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Friday, May 29 12:42 a.m. Arrested, Devin P. Dube, 24, of 10 Munson St., Hudson, for B&E building night time for felony, possess burglarious instrument, deface property (11 cts), disturbing the peace, disorderly conduct.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 35

COMMUNITYOBITUARIES Mildred E. Pierce, 86 MARLBOROUGH - Mildred (Mickey) E. Pierce, 86, passed away May 27, 2020 at the Reservoir Center for Health and Rehabilitation.

She leaves her daughter, Debra Pierce Durant of Marlborough/Wilsonville, Conn. and her life partner Dick Majercik of Wilsonville, Conn.; and three sons, Steven Pierce and his wife Kimberly of Grant, Mich., Stanley Pierce and his wife Linda of Chicopee, and Breck Bator-Pierce and his husband Frank Bator of New York, NY. She also leaves a sister, Helen Riley of Texas. Mickey also has eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

There are no calling hours.

Private funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Shaw-Majercik Funeral Home of Webster.

Carol A. Proctor, 76 MARLBOROUGH - Carol A. Proctor, 76, of Marlborough, died May 26, 2020 at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester.

She leaves two sisters, Margaret P. “Peggy” Newcomb

“How About Hat”

and her husband David of Southern, Maine and Katherine Hamill and her husband John of Brownsville, Maine, and her beloved nephew, Walter A. Kelley Jr. of Marlborough, who visited her every week.

She also has many nephews and nieces who will miss her.

She was predeceased by her siblings, Walter H. Kelley in 1993 and Albert J. Kelley Jr. and Alice A. Hoey, both in 2016.

Funeral and burial will be private. There are no calling hours. The Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough is assisting with arrangements.

Evelyn LeBlanc, 88 Evelyn “Nanny” (Donovan) LeBlanc

NORTHBOROUGH - It is with great sadness that we announce that Mom died peacefully in her sleep on May 25, 2020. She was born Feb. 18, 1952 in Boston. Evelyn started life in Malden, Massachusetts with parents, James and Miriam (Zimmerman) Donovan and one sibling, beloved big sister, Patricia.

Our sweet mother’s greatest joy in life was being a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She had her hands full

raising eight wonderful children, seven cherished grandchildren, and four beautiful great-grandchildren for a few years in California, but primarily in Hudson. Her children, in descending order, are Carol Lee LeBlanc (son, John), Janice Marie Bisset (husband, David, children, Annie King, husband, Andrew, daughter, Valerie, Michael, wife, Laura Rathke and Holly), twins Anne Elizabeth Shafroth (husband, Jock, twins Taylor Buono, husband, Jeff, twins Evelyn and Gemma and Kasey Umina, husband, John, son, Carmine) and Philip James, Paul Andrew, twins Thomas Edward (son, Bruce) and Bruce Steven, and Louis Francis Jr. (wife, Nicole).

Online condolences may be left at Hays Funeral Home of Northborough at www.haysfuneralhome.com. A memorial service will be arranged next year once the COVID crisis is no more.

Elizabeth M. Satas, 88 HUDSON - Elizabeth “Betty” M. (Hovey) Satas, 88, passed away May 27, 2020. Elizabeth was born on June 5, 1931 to Lyman S. and Barbara (Lamson) Hovey.

She was the loving moth-

er to Robert Ayotte and his wife Linda of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, James Ayotte and his wife Christine of Tallahassee, Fla., and Barbara Barry of Plymouth, and beloved Gramma to Joseph, Timothy, and Brian Ayotte, Patrick and Thomas Barry, Munezah and Muneerah Ayotte. She is survived by her sister, Carol Wilkins and her husband Roger; her brother, Robert Hovey and his wife Bobbe; sisters-in-law Constance (Ayotte) Stigliani and Georgena Hovey; brother-in-law Paul Martel; and several nieces and nephews. Elizabeth was predeceased by her husbands, Joseph Ayotte (the love of her life), and Joseph Satas; and her brother, Richard Hovey.

Due to the current pandemic, a private service at Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home and burial in Saint Michael Cemetery will take place Monday, June 1. A celebration of Elizabeth’s life will be held at a later date.

Matthew E. Smith, 96 CHARLTON - Matthew E. Smith, patriarch of a large and loving family, died at home May 29, 2020 of natural causes.

Born in Grafton in 1923, he was

the son of Albert and Bessie Smith. Matt was predeceased by his wife, Adele (Guinee), in 2016. They were married for 71 years and raised seven children together.

He is survived by his sons, Daniel and his wife Nancy of Auburn and Stephen and his wife Joan of Milton, Fla., and daughters, Carolyn Smith of Little Hocking, Ohio, Melinda Hannan and her husband Kenneth of Charlton, Susan Smith-Scott and her husband Gene Scott of Charlton, Judith Maruca and her husband Francis of Charlton, and daughterin-law Wanda Whitted-Smith of Philadelphia, Pa. He was predeceased by his son, David Smith, and his brothers, Jeremy, Stephen and Christopher. He was adored by his grandchildren, Courtney, Sage, Luke, Chloe, Timothy, Allison, Christopher, Michael, Jacob, Lindsey and Tyler, and greatgrandchildren, Jesse, Joseph, Declan, Adele, Dalila, Connor, Camille, Joni and Esme.

In alignment with current guidelines, a graveside service with military honors was held June 3 at Hillside Cemetery in Auburn, where military honors rendered. Britton Funeral Homes assisted with arrangements.

SUPER CROSSWORD

Answers to puzzle located on p. 36

36 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 37

Westborough’s Pack 100 honors Scouts in virtual ceremony

Pack 100’s 11 Scouts who earned Arrow Light

WESTBOROUGH - Pack 100 Westborough held their Arrow of Light ceremony and Webelos 2 crossover on May 9. Originally scheduled to be held during the Pack’s annual Blue and Gold dinner on May 2, Den Leader Jenn Levine organized a virtual ceremony to honor the 11 Scouts who earned the Arrow Light, the highest honor Cub Scouts can bestow a scout and the only award from Cub Scouts that the recipient will wear on their Boy Scout uniform.

Cubmaster Bill Bramley congratulated the 11 Scouts and thanked Levine and her Den Chief Shawn Levine, stating: “They did a terrific job organizing all aspects of the event -- creating the virtual stage, compiling the achievements and distributing the ceremonial arrows for each Scout.”

As the following Scouts were receiving their ceremonial arrows from their parents, Eric French, Scoutmaster of Troup 100 Westborough, fired off an arrow for each as the Scouts and families watched. The Pack congratulates the following scouts and wishes them the very Clinton Savings Bank donates to food pantries REGION - Clinton Savings Bank has donated $20,000 to six food pantries to help provide healthy food toMA residents and those on the front line of COVID-19. The funds will support WHEAT Community Cupboard & Cafe, Wachusett Food Pantry, West Boylston Food Pantry, Berlin Food Pantry, Bolton Food Pantry, and the Boylston Food Pantry at First Congregational Church.

For more information, visit clintonsavings.com.

best as their Scouting journey continues.

The Scouts honored were: Aidan Chan, Jack Egan, Jonathan Fairbanks, Suhaas Goluguri, Bruin Guilbert, Ryan Hall, Sam Jordan, Sawyer Jordan, Atharv Joshi, Nolan Kelley and Brian Levine.

For more information on Pack 100 visit https://www. pack100westborough.org

Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest launch program to help kids with needs post pandemic MARLBOROUGH – The Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest (BGCMW) has recently launched the “A Boost For Youth” campaign focusing on the unanticipated needs of youth following the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are more than 6,000 youth from Hudson, Marlborough, and Framingham that rely on BGCMW for quality out-of-school programming.

The initiative will focus on reversing learning and language loss by providing one-on-one tutors and group learning opportunities, restoring the feeling of safety for youth who are experiencing anxiety and uncertainty, and providing opportunities for fun and letting kids be kids.

“Our Boost For Youth campaign is special because it supports the immediate needs of the youth we serve. While we have been connecting with our members throughout this closure, our staff is looking forward to seeing members back in our buildings very soon,” said Chris Duane, President & CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest. “Thank you to everyone who has supported the campaign thus far. We know that so many families are counting on us to reopen soon and we appreciate your support.”

BGCMW board members have banded together to match the first $10,000 raised through this campaign. For every dollar you donate today, two dollars will go back to the Club.

For more information and to donate visit www.bgcmetrowest/donate.

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38 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

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efore you petition the Community Advocate saying I’ve lost my mind….or am disrespecting those lost to this virus…hear me out.

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In this column, I cover relatable real estate topics.

Lofty items like “paint your front door because buyers will look at it while their agent fumbles with the keys.” Or the ever-popular, what color should you paint (neutral, and today this means gray)?

Or the perennial favorite… declutter your home.

We are just beginning to put the daily annoyance of COVID-19 in the rearview mirror and are venturing out with our stylish masks and the wonderful cologne of hand sanitizer. The virus is still there, and we hope

to wash it away through vigilance and actively work to avoid a second surge.

When we flattened the cur ve for illness, we also flattened the curve for real estate. Our coveted “spring market” is occurring now, during the summer, with homes coming on the market briskly and inventory being eaten up like a hungry PACMAN game.

It continues being a sellers’ market as inventory is less than demand. Interest rates are the lowest we’ve seen in generations making home ownership more

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Homes nicely presented and priced correctly are selling. Buyers must be agile.

Many thought we would swing to a buyers market and prices would plummet.

Supply is not meeting demand, so pricing is edging up and it continues to be a sellers market. The market is very dynamic right now.

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buyers stumble before the closing because they are “furloughed.” ( When did furlough become a synonym f o r l ayo f f ?) An d i f t h e furlough is ending in one of the reopening phases, these same well-qualified buyers may not be coming back to a job with the same number of hours or hourly rate. At some point, people may just not be able to pay their mortgages or rent…. and then fear will show its ugly head.

If you are planning on selling, this is still a great time to do so. If you must sell, we need to think about where you live after the sale. If you are buying, the interest rate is compelling, and you will need to be agile.

At times like this, having a trusted advisor working with you and guiding you through the process is invaluable. It is not all happy happy out there, and now more than ever working with an engaged (rather than passive) real estate p ro f e s s i o n a l ( a n d t h e i r extended team of inspectors, contractors, attorneys, loan officers, etc.) is needed to help you achieve your housing objectives.

Stay sanitized!

I’m not a huge fan of Zillow, etc. for buyers. Here is an app for your phone/ tablet tied directly to the MLS: www.homesnap.com/ Gary-Kelley.

Gary is heard on WCRN AM 830 discussing “All Things Real Estate.”

If you need advice on selling your home or buying a new one, give us a call 508733-6005.

Kelley is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™ (CLHMS) and awardwinning Realtor. He invites you to follow him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ MoveWithGary/ www.MoveWithGary.com Gary@MoveWithGary.com 508-733-6005

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020 • 39

Westborough construction projects resume

By Jennifer L. Grybowski Contributing Writer WESTBOROUGH - After weeks of stopped construction work as part of Gov. Charlie Baker’s pandemic response plan, Westborough Building Commissioner Fred Lonardo said construction has resumed on several commercial sites in town as part of the Phase One reopening.

Lonardo said all of the sites

are complying with the governor’s directives, such as having hand washing stations set up, doing some kind of daily check on the employees’ health and being proactive with social distancing.

“Generally the number of people you see in any one area is diminished from what it would normally be,” he said.

He said at the Amazon Robotics innovation hub, located at 50 Otis St., the site of the for-

CommunityAdvocate Nicole Alexander

Francisco Arias-Benitez Lea Ashworth

Julie Carrier

Asael Cespedes

Noah Garvey

mer pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, there has been a lot of substantial demolition of the old building, and that foundation work on the new building will likely begin in the next couple of weeks. He also reported that the cube building (behind the old pyramid) is beginning to be occupied, but that Amazon has a nurse on site to manage employees’ health. Plans were to fully open the facility in 2021.

The former Burger King at 139 Turnpike Rd. (Route 9) and the intersection of Lyman Street was razed earlier this year and plans filed for a 5,000-squarefoot ConvenientMD urgent care medical center, Starbucks and new Burger King in its place.

“They’ve come a long way to finishing the outside shell and are in the process of getting permits for interior work,” Lonardo said.

Lonardo said none of the

companies he’s working with seem to be fazed about this setback in scheduling.

“They are going forward and doing what they can do,” he said.

He did acknowledge that permits come with expiration dates, but the building office is giving leniency and extending those dates as a courtesy.

“We aren’t going to deny them,” he said. “We tell the customers to do the best they can.”

Congratulates the Graduates of

WESTBOROUGH HIGH SCHOOL!

Jackson Barry

Annie Beckman

Madison Bromm

Holly Carew

Lauren Chandler

Iona Cotton

Adam Dapolite

Audrey Didier

Michael Durr

Will Garvey

Cecilia Goetz

Madeleine Graves-Witherell Olivia Graves-Witherell

Emma Jane Hardin

Nicole Hippeli

Max Kaplan

Sam Kaplan

Keegan Kerr

Patrick O’Neil

Nishka Pant

Caitlin Papagelis

Justin Papagelis

Sam Rotman

Amanda Santos

Kolby Scamurra

Kristi Scamurra

Daniel Slattery

Josh Sternburg

Haley Thrush

Thank you to all of the graduates for submitting their photos - Congratulations!

40 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, June 12, 2020

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